A shout rang out upon the air: "For Fremont and the Union!" And on they went thundering up the hill. As they approached within a few yards of the rebel line, a terrible fire was poured upon them, but they faltered not. Some of the horses leaped wildly into the air, and then fell to earth dead, but their riders pressed forward.
The rebel ranks could not resist the thunder of this charge. In less than five minutes their lines were completely broken, and the terrified rebels were flying in every direction. Some took refuge in the woods, and fired from behind the trees, while now and then a squad would for a moment make a stand, but it would be quickly dispersed. In half an hour, all firing upon the battle-field had ceased. The rebels were entirely scattered, and were flying for their lives. Some had taken refuge in the city, and concealed themselves in the surrounding buildings.
Now commenced the charge through Springfield. Up and down the streets rode the guard, charging upon all squads of armed rebels, or pursuing them to the threshold of their own doors. Terror seized upon them all, and soon the Body-guard were masters, not only of the field, but of the city itself.
Then commenced the task of gathering together the Union dead and wounded. Seventeen bodies were found lifeless, and removed to the lower room of the new court-house, then used as the Union hospital, while some fifty were found seriously or slightly wounded, or announced as missing. Thus ended one of the most brilliant charges history has ever recorded.
CHAPTER XIV.
The Conclusion
I have no words—my voice is in my sword.
Thou bloodier villain than terms can give thee out.
Shakespeare.